Dubai hosted the fifth edition of Dubai PodFest on Wednesday, drawing more than 1,200 podcasters, media professionals, and digital creators in the region’s largest annual gathering of its kind.
Held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, the event highlighted the emirate’s role in advancing a globally competitive Arab media sector. Sheikh Ahmed said Dubai PodFest reflects the city’s leadership in the media landscape and its commitment to empowering creators to produce world-class content while staying true to Arab identity and values.
Organised by the Dubai Press Club, the forum featured panel discussions and workshops on podcasting’s role in social awareness, monetisation, and digital growth. Speakers stressed the rising importance of podcasts as a medium that blends credibility and influence with direct audience reach.
Mona Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council, noted that podcasting is becoming central to new media. She said Dubai continues to foster innovation and talent in line with the leadership’s vision for a knowledge-driven economy.
The event also honoured winners of the Arab Podcast Program, an initiative supporting regional talent. Emirati writer Amani Abdullah Al Teneiji won first place for her podcast Mareekh, while Saudi media professional Raghad Al Arishi and Syrian podcaster Tahani Mohammed Zuhayman secured second and third places respectively.
Industry expert Bryan Barletta, President of Podcast Movement, shared insights on monetisation, localisation, and video strategies, highlighting the Middle East as an emerging growth market for podcasting. He urged creators to focus on niche communities and diversify revenue streams to achieve sustainable success.
Dubai PodFest was held at the Ritz-Carlton, Dubai International Financial Centre.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
